The Delhi Theatre Festival is back for its fifth season, promising a captivating blend of live performances, star-studded casts, and enduring narratives. With four prestigious venues across Delhi NCR, the festival aims to make theatre accessible to a wider audience. Among the luminaries gracing the festival is the multifaceted Mandira Bedi, a force to be reckoned with in the world of acting. In an exclusive interview with Anirban Dasgupta, Editor of Travellers’ World, Bedi shares her insights into the world of theatre and her expectations for this year’s Delhi Theatre Festival.
- You’ve had a prolific career spanning various mediums, including television, film, and theatre. Can you share some memorable moments from your journey in theatre that have significantly shaped your artistic identity?
There have been so many memorable moments on stage that have shaped me, but playing Seema in Anything But Love is certainly a standout. It was a deeply personal role, filled with nuances that really pushed me to explore the emotional complexities of relationships. There was one particular moment during a live performance when I could feel the audience holding their breath, completely immersed in the scene. That connection with the audience—the energy exchange—is something you can only experience in theatre. It’s raw, it’s real, and it shaped me into an artist who thrives on the immediacy of live performance.
- How has your experience in theatre influenced your work in television and film? Are there specific skills or lessons learned on stage that you find invaluable in your other roles?
Theatre has had a profound influence on my work in television and film. On stage, there’s no second take; you have to be present in every moment, and that sense of focus and commitment translates beautifully to the screen. One skill I’ve carried over is the ability to live fully in the moment, which is invaluable whether you’re doing live performances or shooting for a series. In Anything But Love, for instance, the emotional highs and lows of the character helped me hone my ability to switch between different emotional states, a skill that has benefited me greatly in film and TV roles.
- As a prominent figure in the theatrical community, what are your expectations for the upcoming Delhi theatre festival?
As for the Delhi Theatre Festival, I have high hopes. Festivals like this are not only about showcasing established works but also about creating a space for fresh voices and new ideas. I’m looking forward to seeing how contemporary theatre evolves and how it continues to push boundaries, just like we did with Anything But Love. There’s a unique blend of tradition and innovation in theatre right now, and I expect this festival to highlight that beautifully.
- Theatre is often considered a platform for emerging artists. How do you see the role of festivals like the one in Delhi in nurturing new talent, and what advice do you have for aspiring actors who want to make their mark in theatre?
Festivals like the one in Delhi are crucial for nurturing new talent. They provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their skills, learn from seasoned actors, and gain confidence. My advice for aspiring actors is to embrace theatre with open arms. There’s no better training ground than the stage, where you can refine your craft and understand the dynamics of performing live. It’s not about instant fame but about building a strong foundation, which will help you grow in all aspects of acting.
